Cache La Poudre Fishing Report

Cache La Poudre Fishing Report

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Book your trip today!
Book your Trip Today!

Latest Update: 12/10/2024

Current Streamflow : Gauge Frozen  @ Canyon Mouth, 31 cfs @ Fort Collins, 3 cfs @ North Fork below Seaman Reservoir

Winter Fishing Update: Poudre River

As winter sets in, the Canyon Mouth gauge has frozen, but the main stem of the Poudre River is still fishing well! While ice and snow line the banks, focus on open areas with deeper, slower-moving water – these are the fish’s winter hideaways. Most of the open water will be found below the Mishawaka amphitheater down to the canyon mouth.

Hot Spot: The Gateway Natural Area / North Fork of the Poudre remain ice-free for most of the winter, making them ideal spots for fishing all the way into spring.

Fishing Tips:

  • Single or double nymph rigs with Baetis and Midge patterns setup about 1-1.5 feet apart under a small 1/2 inch or yarn indicator have been producing well.
  • Include an emerging midge or baetis as your bottom fly if you notice fish coming up from the bottom of the river to eat in the middle water column.
  • If you see fish rising pay attention to the rise form. A slow rise leaving a small dimple or slight swirl of water can indicate that the fish are eating emergers that are stuck in or are suspended directly below the surface film. A fast rise accompanied with a splash or air bubble left on the surface indicates that fish are eating adult insects directly off of the surface before the bug can fly away.

Safety Note: Do not try to walk on icy banks. Ice is still thin enough to collapse under the weight of your body. Don’t let that stop you, just be cautious – winter fishing can offer some great solitude, wonderful scenery, and great fishing.

Keep fishing, keep catching! Share your stories and catches with us or call if you have any questions – we’d love to hear how you’re doing!

Recommended Poudre River Flies:

Dry Flies

  • CDC Baetis Dun #18-20
  • Parachute Adams #18-20
  • Eric's Hi-Vis Midge #20-22
  • Sprout Midge #18-20
  • Sparkle Flag BWO #16-18
  • Ext. Body BWO #18

Nymphs

  • Copper John #18-20
  • Anatomical BWO #18-20
  • Rainbow Warrior #18-20
  • Pheasant Tail #18-20
  • Prince Nymph #16-18
  • Two-Bit Hooker #16-18
  • Zebra Midge #18
  • Poison Tung. #18-20
  • Copper Ribbed RS2 #18-20

Streamers

  • Thin Mint #8-12
  • Peanut Envy #2-6
  • Sparkle Minnow #4-6
  • Hot Head Leech #10
  • Ebony
  • Slumpbusters
  • Sculpzilla

The 2024 season on the Cache La Poudre has been an absolute blast!  If you have any questions about guide trips please contact us at 970-498-8968 or click here to book your trip now.